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Real members of MyBCTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Has anyone received a breast reduction with a lumpectomy?

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Rome, GA
July 12
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A MyBCTeam Member

I had a bilateral reduction after lumpectomy. I have fibrous cystic breast disease since 17 years old. The lumps and cysts were so dense that mammograms were useless to see behind them. By 2005, after 2 kids/breast fed, my PCP and the mammogram tech said we can’t see! Insurance declined lumpectomy due to age (34) and benign results so my PCP was so pissed that went for “reduction due to shoulder & nerve issues.” Got approved?!? Removed almost 7lbs of dense/hard lumps & cysts and then plastic surgeon stepped in to reconstruct.

Fast forward to 2026, now have ILC stage 2 upon diagnosis.

July 15
A MyBCTeam Member

Yes, 2019. Glad I did.

July 12
MyBCTeam

That's a great question! Combining a breast reduction with a lumpectomy is something some people do explore, often called oncoplastic surgery. It allows the surgeon to remove the tumor while reshaping or reducing the breast at the same time.

This approach can be especially helpful when:

- The tumor is in a location that Show Full Answer

That's a great question! Combining a breast reduction with a lumpectomy is something some people do explore, often called oncoplastic surgery. It allows the surgeon to remove the tumor while reshaping or reducing the breast at the same time.

This approach can be especially helpful when:

- The tumor is in a location that would affect the breast's appearance after removal
- Achieving better symmetry between both breasts is a priority
- A standard lumpectomy alone might leave a noticeable dent or dimpling

Many MyBCTeam members have shared that breast appearance after lumpectomy was an important factor in their decision-making. It's worth having an open conversation with both your breast surgeon and a plastic surgeon who specializes in breast reconstruction. They can help determine if this combined approach is right for your specific situation, tumor size, and overall treatment plan.

Keep in mind that radiation therapy is typically recommended after a lumpectomy, which can affect healing and the final appearance of the breast — something to factor into any reconstruction or reduction plans.

July 12

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